School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences - Graduate Student Handbook Academic Year 2020-2021
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
School of Graduate Studies
in the Health Sciences
Graduate Student Handbook
Academic Year 2020-2021
Student Handbook
University of Mississippi Medical Center
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences
2020-2021
Published by the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences
University of Mississippi Medical Center
2500 N. State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4504
May 2020 edition
2
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookContents
I. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................6
II. MISSISSION AND HISTORY ..............................................................................................7
III. ADMINISTRATION ..............................................................................................................7
GRADUATE SCHOOL DEANS AND ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF ...........................................................7
IV. GRADUATE PROGRAMS AND PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS .................................7
A. MASTER OF SCIENCE .............................................................................................................7
1. Programs ...........................................................................................................................7
2. Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) ..................................................................................8
3. Course Work......................................................................................................................8
4. Time Limit .........................................................................................................................8
5. Thesis or Capstone Project Requirements ........................................................................8
6. Application for Diploma....................................................................................................9
7. Exit Survey.........................................................................................................................9
B. DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY .......................................................................................................9
1. Programs ...........................................................................................................................9
2. Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) ..................................................................................9
3. Course Work......................................................................................................................9
4. Time Limit .......................................................................................................................10
5. Qualifying Examination and Admission to Doctoral Candidacy ....................................10
6. Dissertation .....................................................................................................................10
7. Publication Requirement .................................................................................................11
8. Application for Diploma..................................................................................................11
9. Exit Surveys .....................................................................................................................11
10. Student Progression Flowchart.......................................................................................12
C. POST-BACCALAUREATE CERTIFICATE .................................................................................13
1. Biochemistry ....................................................................................................................13
D. MD/PHD PROGRAM ...........................................................................................................13
1. Admission Requirements .................................................................................................13
2. Student Progression ........................................................................................................14
V. SGSHS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES .........................................................................14
A. ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAM ..................................................................................14
B. ACADEMIC PROBATION ........................................................................................................15
C. ADMINISTRATIVE WITHDRAWAL .........................................................................................15
D. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................................15
E. APPEAL OF DISMISSAL .........................................................................................................15
F. ADDING OR DROPPING A COURSE ........................................................................................15
G. COURSE LOAD .....................................................................................................................15
H. DEGREES AND COMMENCEMENT .........................................................................................15
3
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookI. DISMISSAL ...........................................................................................................................15
J. DISTANCE EDUCATION ........................................................................................................16
K. DRESS CODE ........................................................................................................................16
L. ENROLLMENT.......................................................................................................................16
M. GOOD ACADEMIC STANDING ...............................................................................................16
N. GRADE FORGIVENESS ..........................................................................................................16
O. GRADING .............................................................................................................................16
P. HONOR CODE .......................................................................................................................16
Q. INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN POLICY ..........................................................................16
R. INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FOR NON-CITIZEN ALIEN STUDENTS ...........................................16
S. LEAVE OF ABSENCE .............................................................................................................16
T. NON-DEGREE SEEKING STUDENT ........................................................................................17
U. NOTICE OF PUBLIC DEFENSE ................................................................................................17
V PROGRAM REVIEW ...............................................................................................................17
W. PROGRAM WITHDRAWAL .....................................................................................................17
X. PROSPECTIVE STUDENT GRADE FORGIVENESS ....................................................................17
Y. REGISTRATION FEE ..............................................................................................................17
Z. SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS CRITERIA FOR FEDERAL FINANCIAL
AID/INSTITUTIONAL SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITY .........................................................................17
AA. GRADUATE STIPENDS ..........................................................................................................17
1. SGSHS Stipend Policy .....................................................................................................17
2. Outside Employment .......................................................................................................18
BB. STUDENT COMPLIANCE TRAINING ......................................................................................18
1. Student Compliance Training Policy ..............................................................................18
2. Mandatory Immunizations...............................................................................................18
CC. STUDENT GRIEVANCE AND COMPLAINT POLICY .................................................................18
DD. STUDENT PROGRESSION AND SEMI-ANNUAL REVIEW POLICY ............................................18
1. Student Progression/Capstone Project Forms ................................................................18
EE. TRANSFER OF CREDIT POLICY .............................................................................................18
VI. UMMC POLICIES ...............................................................................................................18
A. INFORMATION POLICY .........................................................................................................18
B. SOCIAL MEDIA .....................................................................................................................19
C. EMAIL ..................................................................................................................................19
VII. SCHOLARSHIPS AND FUNDING...................................................................................19
A. STUDENT STIPENDS ..............................................................................................................19
B. INSTITUTIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS ...........................................................................................19
C. LOANS AND FINACIAL AID ...................................................................................................19
VIII. STUDENT AWARDS .......................................................................................................19
A. DEAN’S SERVICE AWARD ....................................................................................................19
B. DR. L. WILLIAM CLEM ENDOWED MEMORIAL AWARD .......................................................19
4
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookC. HELEN REEVES TURNER, MD, PHD AWARD .......................................................................20
D. RANDALL-TRUSTMARK GRADUATE RESEARCH AWARD .....................................................20
E. REGIONS GRADUATE RESEARCH AWARD ............................................................................20
F. ROBERT A. MAHAFFEY, JR. MEMORIAL AWARD .................................................................20
G. WALLACE CONNERLY, MD SCHOLARSHIP...........................................................................20
IX. STUDENT RESOURCES ....................................................................................................20
A. ASSOCIATED STUDENT BODY (ASB) ...................................................................................20
B. GRADUATE STUDENT GOVERNMENT (GSB) .......................................................................21
C. OFFICE OF THE ASSOCIATE VICE CHANCELLOR OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS .............................21
D. OFFICE OF ACADEMIC SUPPORT ...........................................................................................21
E. DIVISION OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS ..................................................................................21
F. STUDENT EMPLOYEE HEALTH .............................................................................................21
G. STUDENT ASSISTANCE (LIFESYNCH) ...................................................................................22
H. STUDENT COUNSELING AND WELLNESS CENTER .................................................................22
I. CAMPUS POLICE AND SECURITY ..........................................................................................22
J. STUDENT ORIENTATION .......................................................................................................22
K. ANNUAL EVENTS .................................................................................................................22
X. STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................22
A. STUDENT COMPLAINTS ........................................................................................................22
B. MISTREATMENT/TITLE IX REPORTING AND POLICIES ..........................................................23
C. FERPA ................................................................................................................................23
A. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR MENTORS .........................................23
XI. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT AND READING OF HANDBOOK .............24
5
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookI. Introduction
The Student Handbook is a source of information on the University of Mississippi Medical
Center’s School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences (SGSHS), and related to policies,
procedures, available resources and issues that are of concern to the student academic life. It
acts as a companion to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) Bulletin.
This SGSHS Student Handbook is reviewed each year and an electronic copy is available to
all students via the UMMC SGSHS website. Students are responsible for using the Student
Handbook as a resource when questions arise, and as a guide to academic/non-academic
policies and procedures. These policies are subject to change during the academic year. Any
such changes will be distributed to all students. Each student must sign a Student Handbook
Acknowledgment form (see Appendix) verifying that he/she has read and understands the
SGSHS policies and procedures.
6
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookII. Mission and History
A. Mission
The mission of the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences is to:
• Train qualified researchers who will make significant contributions to scientific
literature;
• Educate those who will train the next generation of biomedical scientists and
health care professionals;
• Foster the spirit of scientific inquiry;
• And promote an environment that embraces diversity and cultural differences.
B. History
The School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences at the University of Mississippi
Medical Center in Jackson was established in 2001 by the Board of Trustees of State
Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL). The graduate programs in the health sciences
previously operated under the auspices of the graduate school at the University of
Mississippi.
III. Administration
The Graduate School Office is located in N146.
Deans
Joey Granger, PhD Dean 601-815-1436
Michael J. Ryan, PhD Associate Dean for Student Affairs 601-814-1484
Sydney R. Murphy, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs 601-984-1206
PhD
Hanna J. Broome, Assistant Dean for Graduate Education 601-984-1204
PhD
Administrative Personnel
Shanna Moulds Director of Operations 601-984-1632
Jessica Bowman Project Manager 601-984-1199
Emma Liston, MFA Administrative Assistant III 601-984-1195
IV. Graduate Programs and Program Requirements
The SGSHS offers degree programs leading to a Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of
Philosophy (PhD). In addition, the SGSHS offers a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in
Biochemistry. A listing of the specific graduate programs are as follows:
A. Master of Science
1. Programs
Biomedical Sciences
Clinical Investigation
(a) Population Outcomes Track
(b) Translational Human Research Track
7
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbook(c) Clinical Trials Track
(d) Maternal Fetal Medicine Track (only fellows accepted into the Maternal Fetal
Medicine residency program)
2. Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
A student who completes a MS degree should be able to:
• Demonstrate mastery of a body of knowledge in the discipline above that of a
baccalaureate degree;
• Apply and understand the basic methodologies of the discipline;
• Retrieve, evaluate, and utilize information relevant to the discipline;
• Communicate, both orally and in writing, in a manner and level of proficiency
that is standard for the discipline;
• Conduct research or produce creative work (for thesis MS);
• Apply the professional practices in the discipline (for non-thesis MS).
3. Course Work
A minimum of 30 credit hours and a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.8 (on
a 4.0 point scale) or higher, or a 75% weighted numerical average, are required for
completion of the degree.
4. Time Limit
The time limit for completing all requirements for a MS degree is six years from the
date of first registration.
5. Thesis or Capstone Project Requirements
a. Thesis Advisory Committee
(a) The thesis advisory committee is prepared under the direction of the program
director and must be approved by the Dean of the SGSHS through the
Nomination of Advisory Committee (Master of Science) form. The
committee must consist of a minimum of three individuals. Committee
members must be full or associate members of the SGSHS Graduate Faculty.
The chair of the committee and one other member must be from the student’s
major program area. One member can be from outside the University of
Mississippi Medical Center.
b. Thesis/ Capstone Project Defense
(a) Thesis
The Maternal Fetal Medicine track within the MS of Clinical Investigation
requires successful completion of an oral examination and thesis defense for
graduation. The candidate’s advisory committee will conduct the
examination, and the thesis should show evidence of original investigation.
Students should complete and submit a signed Thesis Defense form to the
SGSHS Office of the Dean.
(b) Capstone Project
The Population Outcomes, Human Translational, and Clinical Trials tracks
require successful completion of a capstone project. The project may be a
grant proposal, published manuscript, approved clinical, etc. Specific details
regarding a student’s capstone project can be obtained from the graduate
8
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbookprogram director. Following completion of the project and approval by the
advisory committee, students should complete and submit a Capstone Project
Approval form to the SGSHS Office of the Dean.
6. Application for Diploma
The Application for Diploma and the Cap and Gown order form must be completed
through the MyU student portal at the beginning of the semester in which the student
expects to graduate and as outlined on the SGSHS academic calendar. The
application must be approved by the graduate program director and SGSHS
Academic Dean.
7. Exit Survey
All students must complete an anonymous online exit survey prior to graduation. The
collated results will be used to assess program effectiveness. Students will be sent a
link to complete the online survey.
B. Doctor of Philosophy
1. Programs
a. Biomedical Materials Science (no longer accepting new students)
b. Biomedical Sciences
(a) Biomedical Materials Science Track
(b) Biomedical Imaging
(c) Pathology
c. Cell and Molecular Biology
d. Clinical Anatomy
e. Experimental Therapeutics and Pharmacology
f. Microbiology and Immunology
g. Neuroscience
h. Nursing
i. Pathology (no longer accepting new graduate students)
j. Physiology and Biophysics
2. Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
A student who completes a Doctor of Philosophy degree should:
• Demonstrate broad and advanced knowledge within the discipline;
• Utilize a range of methodologies for the discipline;
• Independently perform original research;
• Communicate effectively;
• Function as a professional in the discipline.
3. Required Course Work
a. A Doctor of Philosophy degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours beyond a
baccalaureate degree, or 30 credit hours beyond a Master of Science degree
within the same field, and a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher (on a
4.0 point scale), or an 80% weighted numerical average.
b. All students, with the exception of students enrolled in PhD in Nursing, must
satisfactorily complete Responsible Conduct in Research (ID 709) and
9
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookProfessional Skills (ID 714). PhD in Nursing students may take Ethics in
Research (ID 700), and are exempt from enrolling in Professional Skills.
c. The program-specific curriculum and suggested plans of study can be found in the
UMMC Bulletin and/or obtained from the program director.
4. Time Limit
The time limit for completing all requirements for a doctor of philosophy degree is
five years from admission to candidacy.
5. Qualifying Examination and Admission to Doctoral Candidacy
All students must successfully pass a qualifying examination to be admitted into
candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree. The qualifying examination is given to
graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and as
outlined in the suggested plan of study. The composition of the examination (oral,
written, comprehensive, or research based) varies by program, and information on the
format may be obtained from the relevant program director. Following successful
completion of the qualifying exam, the student is required to submit the Qualifying
Exam Approval form to the SGSHS Office of the Dean. Two weeks after satisfactory
completion of the qualifying examination, the student must submit an Application for
Admission to Candidacy to the SGSHS Office of the Dean.
6. Dissertation
a. Dissertation Advisory Committee
The dissertation advisory committee is prepared under the direction of the
program director and must be approved by the Dean of the SGSHS through the
Nomination of Advisory Committee form. The committee must consist of a
minimum of five members. Four of the committee members must be SGSHS
Graduate Faculty (this includes the committee chair/major advisor), three of
which must be from the student’s major program. One member may be UMMC
faculty outside of the major program of study or outside of UMMC. The
Nomination of Advisory Committee form should be submitted to the SGSHS
Office of the Dean within six weeks of admission to doctoral candidacy. All
students are required to meet with their advisory committee twice per academic
year in order to provide progression updates and to allow for early intervention of
any problems that may arise.
b. Dissertation Proposal
All students must present a proposed dissertation topic to their committee within
one year of admission into doctoral candidacy. Upon approval of the committee,
the student is required to submit the Dissertation Proposal Approval form to the
SGSHS.
c. Written Dissertation
(a) The Doctor of Philosophy degree requires successfully completion of a
written dissertation. The dissertation is prepared under the direction of the
student’s advisor and must be approved by the candidate’s advisory
committee and the Dean of the SGSHS. The dissertation must show
originality of thought, and demonstrate the results of independent
10
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbookinvestigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit
mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of
literary skill.
(b) The written dissertation may be prepared in either a traditional or a manuscript
style format. Guidelines for preparation of the written dissertation may be
found on the SGSHS website.
(c) Ten business days before the student’s oral defense, the student must submit a
copy of the written dissertation to each advisory committee member for
review. In addition, the student must submit a copy to the SGSHS Office of
the Dean for formatting review.
d. Oral Dissertation Defense
The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate’s advisory committee and
consists of a public presentation and oral defense. As stated in the Notice of
Public Defense policy, the oral defense shall be publicly announced two weeks
before the intended date. Five members of the advisory committee must be
present at the final oral examination. A private deliberation by the advisory
committee will determine the acceptability of the defense and dissertation. Further
questioning of the candidate may be included in the committee’s deliberations.
Upon successful completion of the oral defense, all present members of the
advisory committee must the sign Dissertation Defense form. The signed form
must be submitted to the SGSHS Office of the Dean two days after the defense.
7. Publication Requirement
All PhD students must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a
national or international peer-reviewed journal. Verification of the publication
requirement requires submission of the signed Publication Requirement form to the
SGSHS Office of the Dean.
8. Application for Diploma
The application for diploma and the cap and gown order form must be completed
through the MyU student portal at the beginning of each semester in which the
student expects to graduate and as outlined on the SGSHS academic calendar. The
application must be approved by the graduate program director and SGSHS
Academic Dean.
9. Exit Surveys
a. SGSHS Exit Survey
All students must complete an anonymous online exit survey prior to graduation.
The collated results will be used to assess program effectiveness. Students will be
sent a link to complete the online survey. A notification of completion will be
mailed to the graduate upon completion.
b. Survey of Earned Doctorates
All students must complete the online survey. All responses will remain
anonymous.
c. Employer Permission form
d. Student Information form
11
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbook10. Student Progression Flowchart
12
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbook13 School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbook
C. Post-baccalaureate Certificate
1. Biochemistry
The graduate certificate program in Biochemistry is a distance education program
aimed at working professionals or graduates whose professions are impacted by the
field of medical biochemistry with an understanding of medical biotechnology and
underlying genetic deficiencies of common metabolic disorders.
a. Student Progression:
Students are required to complete CMB 705 Biochemistry I: Molecular,
Structural, and Cellular Function and CMB 706 Biochemistry II: Enzymology and
Cellular Metabolism. Students are also required to take one of the remaining two
components to fulfill the certificate program. Students who successfully complete
11 credit hours will be able to demonstrate knowledge in the areas of
biochemistry, enzymology, cellular metabolism, biotechnology, forensics, and
genetic deficiencies of human disease.
b. Application for Certificate
The application for certificate must be completed through the MyU student portal
at the beginning of each semester in which the student expects to complete all
certificate requirements, and as outlined on the SGSHS academic calendar. The
application must be approved by the graduate program director and SGSHS
Academic Dean.
c. SGSHS Exit Survey
All students must complete an anonymous online exit survey prior to the award of
certification. The collated results will be used to assess program effectiveness.
Students will be sent a link to complete the online survey. A notification of
completion will be mailed to the graduate upon completion.
D. MD/ PhD Program
The MD/PhD Program is a seven-year program in which the student will complete three
years of medical school (M1-M3), three years of graduate study (G1-G3), and a final year
of medicine (M4). The goal of the MD/PhD program is to train physician-scientists by
preparing them for careers in academic medicine. Graduates of the combined MD/PhD
degree program will have a broad understanding of contemporary medical knowledge
and an ability to productively investigate issues related to human disease.
1. Admission Requirements
a. Admission to the School of Medicine at UMMC;
b. A complete application to the SGSHS which includes submission of GRE scores;
c. A personal statement indicating the reasons for choosing the MD/PhD program
(see options on the School of Medicine’s Secondary Application);
d. A list of relevant research experiences and presentations (under “Experiences” in
his/her American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) application);
e. A letter of recommendation from an individual capable of evaluating the
applicant’s research potential.
All application materials should be sent to the Associate Dean for Medical School
Admissions. MD/PhD applicants who are invited to interview with the Medical
14
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookSchool Admissions Committee will, at the completion of these interviews, also meet
with one or more members of the graduate school’s MD/PhD admissions committee.
Prior to the interview with the SGSHS, the student must complete the Graduate
School application for the PhD Program.
2. Student Progression
a. Pre-M1 Summer: Once a student is accepted into the degree programs, he/she is
expected to enter at the start of the summer semester before entrance into the
School of Medicine. Students will register for 1 credit hour of Research in
Biomedical Sciences (ID 737), and will be required to select a minimum of three
graduate faculty in two different basic science departments for laboratory
rotations.
b. M1 Year: Students will be expected to follow the SOM plan of study and are
required to attend the departmental journal club and seminar series in the basic
science department of their interest.
c. Pre-M2 Summer: Students will register for 1 credit hour of Research in
Biomedical Sciences (ID 737), and are required to select one or two graduate
faculty for laboratory rotations.
d. M2-M3 Years: Students will be expected to follow the SOM plan of study, and
are required to attend the departmental journal club and seminar series in the basic
science department of their interest. In addition, students are expected to prepare
a NIH F30 application for submission. The student’s major advisor must be
identified no later than April 1st.
e. G1 Year: Students will follow the suggested plan of study for their specific
degree programs, in addition to completing Responsible Conduct in Research (ID
709) and Professional Skills (ID 714). Students will be required to present their
research finding at the SGSHS Graduate Research Day and submit a NIH F30
application.
f. G2 Year: Students will follow the suggested plan of study for their specific
degree program in addition to completing longitudinal clinical training (1-4
hours/month).
g. G3 Year: Students will follow the suggested plan of study for their specific
degree program in addition to completing longitudinal clinical training (1-3
days/month). Students must have met all PhD graduation requirements at the end
of the G3 year.
h. M4 Year: Students are expected to follow the SOM plan of study.
V. SGSHS Policies and Procedures
A. Academic Achievement Program
The SGSHS will monitor individual exam grades throughout the year. Any student who
fails to meet the minimum test or aggregate scores will be recommended for the
Academic Achievement Program offered through the Office of Academic Support per the
Academic Achievement Policy.
15
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookB. Academic Probation
The SGSHS monitors student progression and if any time during an academic year a
student is not in good academic standing, the student will be placed on academic
probation per the SGSHS Academic Probation Policy.
C. Administrative Withdrawal
Any student who fails to remain continuously enrolled in their degree program, and has
not requested an official leave of absence by the last day to register for the semester as
indicated on the academic calendar, will be administratively withdrawn from the School
of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences per the Administrative Withdrawal Policy.
D. Admission Requirements
The SGSHS defines the minimum requirements for admission into the SGSHS per the
Admission Requirements Policy.
E. Appeal of Dismissal
Students have the right to appeal a dismissal from the SGSHS per the SGSHS Appeal of
Dismissal Policy.
F. Adding or Dropping a Course
Classes may be added or dropped until the day specified by the academic calendar and in
accordance with the SGSHS Add/Drop Course Policy. The Add/Drop Form can be found
on the SGSHS website.
G. Course Load
1. Full-time course load in the SGSHS is nine credit hours per semester except for the
summer term when one credit hour is sufficient, per the SGSHS Course Load Policy.
A student who is admitted to candidacy and is working on a thesis or dissertation may
be classified as a full-time student while registering for one credit hour, following a
request by the student’s advisor and program director. Student and advisor must
complete the required Registration Approval Form, which may be found on the
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences website.
2. A part-time student is one who is enrolled for less than nine credit hours for the fall
and spring semesters. Since some programs within the SGSHS allow for both full-
time and part-time study, students should consult their program director to determine
the criteria for maintaining full or part-time status within their program.
H. Degrees and Commencement
Degrees earned in a graduate program are awarded at the end of each semester. Formal
commencement ceremonies are held once a year at the end of the academic year (May).
All graduates are encouraged to participate in commencement exercises. To be eligible
for graduation and commencement, a student must complete all degree requirements and
complete an Application for Diploma through the MyU portal at the beginning of
semester in which the student expects to graduate per the SGSHS Degrees and
Commencement Policy.
I. Dismissal
Students may be dismissed from the SGSHS for cause. This may include unsatisfactory
academic performance, and/or lack of progress, failure to pass qualifying examinations,
poor research performance, breaches of scientific integrity, i.e., plagiarism, falsification
16
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbookof data, etc. or behavioral issues, i.e. harassment, per the SGSHS Student Dismissal
Policy.
J. Distance Education
Students receiving instruction through distance education shall be provided comparable
access to student support services per the SGSHS Distance Education Policy. Policies
that apply to traditional face-to-face courses also apply to distance education courses,
unless an exception is explicitly noted.
K. Dress Code
Students are expected to dress in good taste and to present themselves in a manner
appropriate to their profession per the SGSHS Dress Code Policy.
L. Enrollment
Per the SGSHS Enrollment Policy, once students are accepted into a program, they must
be continuously enrolled in classes until the degree is completed or be placed on leave of
absence. Failure to remain continuously enrolled will result in administrative withdrawal
from the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences.
M. Good Academic Standing
The SGSHS Good Academic Standing Policy defines a student in good academic
standing as one who is making acceptable progress toward a graduate degree and who is
eligible to register for and pursue academic coursework at UMMC for the current
semester. All graduate students are expected to remain in good academic standing
throughout the entire course of their study.
N. Grade Forgiveness
Enrolled students who earn a grade of C or below in a course in the SGSHS may retake
that course once, according to the SGSHS Grade Forgiveness Policy.
O. Grading
Grades for academic credit are awarded based on a four-point grading scale per the
SGSHS Grading Policy.
P. Honor Code
Integrity is the foundation of scientific endeavors. Students must be honest and
trustworthy in all academic environments, i.e., while participating in courses, while
performing research, etc., per the SGSHS Honor Code.
Q. Individual Development Plan Policy
All PhD Graduate Students (pre- and post-candidacy students) will prepare, complete,
and/or revise an Individual Development Plan (using myIDP or equivalent tools)
according to the SGSHS Individual Development Plan Policy.
R. International Travel for Non-Citizen Alien Students
Non-citizen alien students receiving a stipend will be allowed a maximum of three weeks
leave time for international travel per the SGSHS International Travel for Non-Citizen
Alien Students Policy.
S. Leave of Absence
Leave of absence from school for students currently booked may be granted by the Dean
(or designee) per the SGSHS Leave of Absence Policy.
17
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookT. Non-degree Seeking Student
Before registering for classes, individuals who wish to take graduate coursework but are
not students in an UMMC academic degree program may apply as a non-degree seeking
student per the SOPH Non-Degree Seeking Student Policy. The Non-Degree Seeking
Student Request Form must be submitted and approved by the Office of the Dean before
a student can register for the course.
U. Notice of Public Defense
Per the SGSHS Notice of Public Defense Policy, all student dissertation defenses shall be
publicly announced two weeks prior to a student’s public defense.
V. Program Review
The SGSHS will review each graduate program every five years per the SGSHS Program
Review Policy.
W. Program Withdrawal
Registration in an academic program makes the student responsible for completion of the
course of study unless the student withdraws from the curriculum per the SGSHS
Program Withdrawal Policy. The Withdrawal Request Form must be submitted to the
Office of Dean. Any student who fails to remain continuously enrolled in their degree
program and does not request an official leave of absence by the last day to register for
the semester will be administratively withdrawn from the SGSHS per the SGSHS
Administrative Withdrawal Policy.
X. Prospective Student Grade Forgiveness
Applicants to the SGSHS at UMMC who have earned a grade of D or F in a course at any
institution, and who have successfully repeated the course, may have the higher grade
used in calculating the overall GPA for admission following approval of the Graduate
School Academic Dean (or designee). SGSHS Prospective Student Grade Forgiveness.
Y. Registration Fee
Students may register during a priority registration period at no cost. During a pre-
registration period of two weeks before classes begin students will be assessed a $50
registration fee. Students who register after classes begin will be assessed a $100
registration fee. These fees are not assessed to students during the initial registration into
a program of study. SGSHS Registration Fee Policy
Z. Satisfactory Academic Progress Criteria for Federal Financial Aid and Institutional
Scholarship Eligibility
All students must remain in good academic standing, as outlined in the SGSHS Good
Academic Standing Policy, for purposes of continued financial support, i.e. Dean’s
scholarship and federal and state loans. SGSHS Financial Aid Good Academic Standing
Policy
AA. Graduate Stipends
1. SGSHS Stipend Policy
Financial support in the form of graduate stipends may be available in some programs
and are awarded on a competitive basis. More information regarding student stipends
may be found in the SGSHS Stipend Policy.
18
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student Handbooka. Dean’s Scholarship
In addition to the stipend, all students receiving a stipend from either the SGSHS
or an outside source will also receive a scholarship to cover tuition. Stipends are
provided to graduate students to assist with living expenses.
2. Outside Employment
Because the stipend allows the student to pursue his/her graduate work without the
need to seek outside employment, graduate students supported by stipends from either
UMMC or research grants are expected to devote their full efforts to their academic
classes and research projects. Although outside employment is generally
discouraged, permission may be granted to senior graduate students for teaching a
course related to their field of study as this may be considered appropriate training for
an academic career. In view of this, and consistent with UMMC policy, outside
employment is permitted by the completion of the Outside Employment Request
Form and with the written consent of the chairman of the advisory committee, the
director of the graduate program, and the dean of the SGSHS. An application for
permission to engage in outside employment, available from the Office of Human
Resources, must be completed and approved prior to seeking such employment.
Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in disciplinary action, up to and
including loss of stipend and dismissal from the graduate program. Additional
information about outside employment may be found in the SGSHS Stipend Policy.
BB. Student Compliance Training
1. Student Compliance Training Policy
All student and student/employees must receive institutional compliance training in
accordance with the institutional compliance training policy and procedure per the
SGSHS Student Compliance Training Policy.
2. Mandatory Immunizations
All students are required to comply with the Immunization Requirements for UMMC
Students Policy.
CC. Student Grievance and Compliance Policy
DD. Student Progression and Semi-Annual Review policy
1. Student Progression Form (MS and PHD), Capstone Project form (MSCI)
EE. Transfer of Credit Policy
With the approval of the program director and the Dean (or designee) of the SGSHS, a
limited amount of graduate credit earned at another recognized school may be accepted
toward degree requirements per the SGSHS Transfer of Credit Policy. The Transfer of
Course Credit Approval Form can be found on the SGSHS website.
VI. UMMC Policies
A. Information Policy
All employees, students, contractors, and other credentialed individuals must comply
with the
UMMC Information Asset Management Policy to reduce risk by protecting and
supporting confidentiality, availability, and integrity of information assets.
19
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookB. Social Media
The SGSHS utilizes social media. All students in UMMC schools and programs must
comply with the UMMC Social Media Procedure and UMMC Policy and Guidelines for
Personal Use of Social Media.
C. Email
Email (electronic mail) services are provided to the UMMC community in support of the
mission and administrative functions of the university. Users of the email system are
expected to comply with the UMMC Email Policy and UMMC Information Security
Management Program Policy. The email system may not be used for illegal or unlawful
activities. Email users are expected to use the services in a professional and respectful
manner. Email is the official mode of communications, and students receive information
from the SGSHS via their UMMC email accounts. Therefore, students are expected to
check their UMMC e-mail accounts regularly.
VII. Scholarships and Funding
A. Student Stipends
Students may receive stipends to cover living expenses per the SGSHS Stipend Policy.
B. Institutional Scholarships
1. Wallace Conerly, MD Scholarship honors Dr. Conerly’s service as Vice Chancellor
for Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine from 1994-2003 and provides
both medical and graduate tuition for outstanding MD/PhD students. In order to be
eligible for renewal of MD/PhD scholarship support, students must be enrolled as
full-time students in either the School of Medicine or SGSHS at UMMC. In addition,
students are expected to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.2 at
the end of every semester. Students must also maintain satisfactory academic
progress, as determined by their respective graduate program. As each graduate
program has specific requirements, students are highly encouraged to discuss the
expectations of their specific graduate program with the respective graduate Program
Director and/or the MD/PhD Director. In order for a scholarship to be reinstated, a
student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.2 for one (1) full
semester before being reconsidered for scholarship support.
2. Dean’s Scholarship
C. Loans and Financial Aid
Students may apply for additional funding through various loan mechanisms. Students
should contact the Office of Student Financial Aid to determine their eligibility.
VIII. Student Awards
A. Dean’s Service Award
Presented to the graduate student who exemplifies the outstanding attributes of
leadership, community outreach and service.
B. Dr. L. William Clem Endowed Memorial Award
This award, endowed by a generous gift from Dr. Wei Yu and wife Dr. Fei Lu, provides
funds for student travel to scientific meetings and for other allowable student expenses.
20
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookThe award is available to Microbiology and Immunology students who are in good
academic standing. Recipients will be selected by the Microbiology Graduate Faculty
and approved by the Dean of the SGSHS.
C. Helen Reeves Turner, MD, PhD Award
Established in 2013 and is awarded each year to a deserving student from one of the
Medical Center Schools. The recipient of this award, selected by the dean or his designee,
exemplifies Dr. Turner’s outstanding attributes of leadership, education and service.
D. Randall-Trustmark Graduate Research Award
This award is made in memory of Dr. Charles C Randall, the first chair of microbiology
at UMMC and an early director of Graduate Studies at UMMC. Dr. Randall set a high
standard for scholarship and directed graduate studies during its formative years at
UMMC. The Randall-Trustmark Graduate Research Award and cash prize are presented
in recognition of outstanding research accomplishments and scientific contributions by a
graduate student.
E. Regions Graduate Research Award
The award and cash prize are presented in recognition of outstanding research
accomplishments by a graduate student.
F. Robert A. Mahaffey, Jr. Memorial Award
The first research award established at UMMC for the recognition, encouragement, and
promotion of superior scientific capability of young investigators. Established in 1976 in
memory of the late Robert Mahaffey Jr., a UMMC graduate student in immunopathology,
this award consists of a cash prize and certificate, signed by the Dean of the Graduate
School, awarded to each recipient in recognition of exceptional research potential in basic
or clinical biomedical science. In addition, the recipient’s name is engraved on a
permanent plaque displayed in the Medical Center.
G. Wallace Conerly, MD Scholarship
Honors Dr. Conerly’s service as Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs and Dean of the
School of Medicine from 1994-2003 and provides both medical and graduate tuition for
outstanding MD/PhD students.
IX. Student Resources
A. Associated Student Body (ASB)
The Associated Student Body (ASB) of UMMC serves as the governing body of all
students. The SGSHS is represented in the ASB by SGSHS students chosen annually.
More information about the ASB can be found on the ASB website.
1. Student Activities
There are also intramural leagues including flag football, basketball, soccer, and
volleyball. In addition, graduate students take part in philanthropic events and
community outreach activities.
2. Social Events
Social events include a number of annual parties hosted by the ASB council.
21
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookB. Graduate Student Government
The Graduate Student Body (GSB) council represents the students enrolled in the
graduate programs at UMMC. Elected officers and representatives serve in various
student government capacities.
C. Office of the Associate Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs
The University of Mississippi Medical Center offers a comprehensive program of student
support services through the Division of Academic Affairs, the Office of the Chief
Student Affairs Officer, the individual schools, the Office of Academic Support, Office
of Student Financial Aid, the Office of Student Accounting, the Office of Student
Records and Registrar, the Student and Employee Health Service and the University
Police. The Medical Center believes these services are an important adjunct to the total
educational program and essential to the continuing fulfillment of the institution’s
purpose.
D. Office of Academic Support
The Office of Academic Support provides the following support services:
• Academic Consulting Services. Academic consultants meet individually with
learners and provide assistance with developing the skills and behaviors that are
essential to academic success and professional development (e.g., time
management, study skills, and testing strategies).
• The Academic Success Kiosk (ASK). ASK is an online, self-paced resource. ASK
addresses time management, study skills, and professionalism.
• University Tutoring Services. University Tutoring Services is a peer tutoring
program available to students experiencing academic difficulty. Supportive
instruction is provided by peers with similar educational backgrounds.
• Writing Support Services. Writing coaches are available to assist students with
assigned coursework and papers. The goal is to add value to the educational
experience through writing critique and support.
• Academic Accommodations. UMMC policy provides for reasonable academic
accommodations to be made for students with verified disabilities on an
individualized and flexible basis as specified under Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
(ADA). Students in the School of Pharmacy should apply for academic
accommodations through the University of Mississippi, Oxford Campus.
E. Division of Information Systems
The DIS – Help Desk provides a group of analysts who work to help UMMC users with
on-campus computer issues, password resets, Canvas, and UMMC webmail support, and
more. Students can contact the helpdesk at 1(877) 347-5041 (toll-free) or
servicedesk@umc.edu.
F. Student Employee Health
The Student Employee Health Department is responsible for student health and on-the-
job employee injuries. Services include nursing care, first aid, and over-the-counter
medications. Standard sick call hours are staffed by a nurse practitioner and/or physician.
22
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookThe department manages TB screening, flu vaccinations, and other vaccinations. A Quick
Care Clinic is also available to UMMC students and employees.
G. Student Assistance (LifeSynch)
UMMC coordinates opportunities for students to receive confidential counseling services
for school-related, personal, and family matters through LifeSynch. Dependents and
household members may also receive services. Professional are available to speak with
you 24/7 to help address your issues and guide you to appropriate resources.
H. Student Counseling and Wellness Center
The Student Counseling and Wellness Center helps UMMC students manage the stresses
and difficulties of daily life, inside and outside the classroom.
I. Campus Police and Security
UMMC Campus Police and Security can be reached at 601-815-3072 for emergencies
and at 601-815-7777 for non-emergencies.
J. Student Orientation
Students will remain enrolled in the course throughout their tenure as students. The
course serves as a resource for information, policies, instructions, resources, and contact
information. Additional student resources are described in the course.
K. Annual Events
1. SGSHS Research Day
Research Day is held during the fall semester and involves oral and poster
presentations as well as a seminar by a distinguished UMMC alumnus/alumna. The
SGSHS views Research Day as a way to showcase the efforts of its various programs
and strongly encourages all graduate students, particularly those who have passed
their qualifying examinations, to participate through the presentation of a poster
describing their current research. In addition, a subset of students/post-doctoral
fellows reflective of the different programs may be selected to present their work in a
series of 10 - 15 minute oral presentations.
2. SGSHS Honors Day
Honors Day is held during the spring semester and recognizes the efforts of those
students who have graduated or are graduating with MS and PhD degrees during the
current academic year. In addition, the SGSHS recognizes those who have shown
exceptional service and/or research productivity during their graduate careers.
Students are nominated by their mentor or another member of graduate faculty and
chosen by a committee representative of the various graduate programs. The
following awards are presented during Honors Day.
X. Student Rights and Responsibilities
A. Student Complaints
Students have the right to complain, whether verbally or in writing, regarding any area of
academic or student life without fear of coercion, harassment, intimidation, or reprisal
from the institution or its employees; Student Comment and Complaints webpage is a
resource. More information is available in the SGSHS Student Complaints Policy.
23
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookB. Mistreatment/Title IX Reporting and Policies
All mistreatment is of serious concern to this institution and is strictly prohibited. Title IX
Coordinator: (601) 815-5150.
C. Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights
with respect to their education records. More information is available in the UMMC
Notification of Rights under FERPA Policy and Notification of Directory Information
Under FERPA.
D. Professional Conduct for Students and Their Mentors
The following guidelines for students and their mentors are provided by the AAMC
Group on Graduate Research, Education, and Training (GREAT) and can be accessed in
full at https://www.umc.edu/graduateschool/files/AAMC%20Compact%202017.pdf .
24
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookAcknowledgement of Receipt and Reading of Handbook
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
STUDENT HANDBOOK ONLINE
I acknowledge that I have received the website address for the Student Handbook and
accept responsibility for reviewing, understanding and complying with the policies and
procedures of the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences at the University of
Mississippi Medical Center.
I also recognize that the policies and procedures may change from time to time and
accept responsibility for maintaining current and accurate information.
The Student Handbook is located on the UMMC Intranet at the website listed below:
https://www.umc.edu/graduateschool/files/SGSHS%20Student%20Handbook.pdf
Student Name (Printed): _______________________________________
Student Signature: _______________________________________
25
School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences 2020-2021 Student HandbookYou can also read
